The scanning electron microscope was used to evaluate the smear layer removal capacity of periodontally diseased teeth subjected to
concentrations of 10mmg/ml and 25mg/ml of tetracycline hydrochloride for one and three minutes, respectively. Thirty- six teeth
were divided into 3 equal groups. Groups 1 and 2 were burnished with tetracycline hydrochloride for 1 and 3 minutes with the
following concentrations 10mg/ml and 25 mg/ml, respectively. Group 3 was burnished with cotton swab saturated in distilled water
and served as the control. Results showed that the control group exhibited a smear layer. Tetracycline hydrochloride irrespective of
the concentration and timing was effective in removing the smear layer. The 1 and 3 minutes application of tetracycline hydrochloride
with a concentration of 25mg/ml revealed widely exposed dentinal tubules. No significant difference (p>0.05) was found between
the experimental groups in relation to timing was noted

Description:

Department of Preventive Dental Sciences
College of Dentistry, King Saud University